The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, has charged 30 newly graduated helicopter pilots of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to uphold the highest standards of integrity, commitment, and professionalism in their service. Represented by the Chief of Training and Operations, Air Vice Marshal Edosa, Abubakar gave the charge during the Combined Graduation Ceremony of the Integrated Helicopter Pilot Course 9/2024 and Airline Transport Pilot Licence Course 2/2025 at the International Helicopter Flying School (IHFS) in Enugu.
*Key Points:*
- *Emphasis on Adaptability*: Abubakar stressed that the pilots' success will depend not only on their flying skills but also on their ability to adapt, collaborate, and operate as part of a coordinated joint force in a dynamic and complex operational environment.
- *Humility and Responsibility*: The CAS urged the new pilots to wear their wings with humility and a deep sense of responsibility, carrying the hopes of a nation and the trust of a service that remains a pillar of peace and stability.
- *Infrastructure Development*: The graduation ceremony also marked the commissioning of IHFS's newly renovated aircraft hangar, aimed at improving maintenance capabilities and operational readiness.
- *NAF's Commitment*: Abubakar emphasized the NAF's commitment to transforming IHFS into a global standard for helicopter training, with ongoing projects including a new school headquarters and 36 units of student accommodation.
*Future Prospects:*
The Nigerian Air Force is building a self-reliant, mission-oriented, and resilient force capable of meeting the airpower demands of today's battle space. With the growing demand for helicopter pilots globally, these newly graduated pilots have promising career prospects and attractive salary potential ahead of them ¹.
